Many who seek to adopt choose kittens, so adult cats tend to remain in shelters and at rescue groups longer. If the shelter isnít a no kill shelter, euthanasia is too often the end result for many.

Arenít adult cats in shelters because something is wrong?

Absolutely not! They are in shelters and rescue groups because they, too, need loving forever homes. Of our four current cats, three were adults when we adopted them. They are loving, amazing and healthy companions and I canít imagine life without them.

What if I have other adult cats? Isnít it better to introduce a kitten instead of an adult cat to the mix?

Not necessarily. We have successfully introduced both kittens and adult cats with this method. The period of adjustment is generally about the same whether you are introducing a kitten or an adult cat to your current kitties.

In fact, for a long time I questioned introducing an adult male cat into a home with another adult male cat. Imagine my surprise when we introduced Higgins to our Cory. We adopted Cory about seven months before Higgins and when we brought Higgins home, Cory wrapped his paw around our new addition to the family and, as they say, the rest is history. Cory and Higgins are the best of buddies! They play together, they curl up and sleep together, and they bathe each other. Sometimes Higgins wakes up from a catnap and seeks out his buddy. It's hard to imagine they spent the first two years of their lives without each other. Cory and Higgins are so adorable together and they never cease to amaze me! They were truly meant to be together and I'm so glad they were meant to be together with us.

What if I prefer to adopt a kitten?

Then by all means, do so! Kittens need loving homes too. Just donít dismiss the idea of adopting an adult cat simply because of the catís age. Look for a cat or kitten that you feel is right for your home and will be a good fit for your family and current pets, if youíre adding to your fur-family.